Data science professionals are in high demand in today’s data-driven world. Whether you’re already working in data science, or you’re ready to make a career change, our Master of Data Science prepares you for a successful career in this exciting field.
Designed in collaboration with our industry partners, this degree gives you the knowledge, skills and hands-on experience to transition from university to the workplace. And with two early exit points along the way, you can be sure that every subject is contributing to your career.
You’ll build fundamental skills in programming, databases, probability, statistics, data exploration and analysis. Got a particular interest in artificial intelligence, bioinformatics or sport analytics? This degree allows you to specialise in these areas and others, such as big data and cloud computing, business applications and data modelling and analytics.
Prepare to lead in one of Australia’s fastest growing professions*
Excel in the dynamic field of data science, exploring the essential skills you need to lead as a data scientist in today’s data-driven landscape.
Build fundamental skills in programming, databases, probability, statistics, data exploration and analysis.
Master the management of large-scale IT projects and use powerful tools for advanced analysis and problem solving.
Understand database fundamentals, programming languages such as Java and Python, and cloud-based services offered by Amazon, Google, IBM and Microsoft.
Choose from seven specialisations and explore electives in complementary disciplines like business, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence (AI) and health.
Master of Data Science course and career outcomes
However you choose to structure your study, La Trobe recognises your hard work. Here are the pathways you could follow as you move through your course.
Master of Data Science intended learning outcomes
Evaluate, communicate and interpret information and results of advanced analysis in the field of data science to expert and lay audiences
Critically analyse and solve complex problems in data science by using expert judgement, advanced knowledge and multi-disciplinary approaches
Use and adapt advanced computing techniques and mathematical and statistical approaches to solve complex scientific problems in the field of data science
Apply advanced theoretical concepts that underpin data science to complex problems using highly developed, integrated knowledge and skills
Apply professional knowledge and skills autonomously or in a team, in a range of specific analytics and performance analysis settings
Use and appropriately customise a broad range of established and emerging data collection and analysis technologies and methodologies related to specialisations
Master of Data Science career opportunities
After graduation, you could work across a range of industries, including business and finance, science, education, health, and sports.
Data scientist
Understand complex data and leverage it to the advantage of businesses and organisations.
Business analyst
Understand how businesses run and use data to solve problems and improve processes.
Health analyst
Gather, analyse and verify healthcare information.
Bioinformatician
Develop methods of research and analysis for understanding and leveraging biological and genomic data.
Machine learning engineer
Use your detailed understanding of machine learning, big data, cloud technology and mathematics to create effective machine learning solutions.
Sample course structure
Please note, the following course structure is indicative and subject to change depending on your course location, offer year or how you tailor your course with specialisations, majors, minors and electives. Structures for the following year are not normally finalised until October, so the sample provided is based on the most recently approved structure. For more information, please refer to the La Trobe University Handbook.
To qualify for the award of Master of Data Science, students must complete a total of 240 credit points across 2 years.
Year 1
Year 1 requires the completion of 120 credit points including:
75 credit points from chosen Core
30 credit points from chosen Specialisation
15 credit points from chosen Electives
Year 2
Year 2 requires the completion of 120 credit points including:
30 credit points from chosen Core
30 credit points from chosen Specialisation
60 credit points from chosen Core choice – Pathway
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Entry requirements and pathways International students
Academic entry requirement
Prerequisites
To be considered for admission to this degree you will need to meet at least one of the following criteria:
completion of an Australian bachelor degree or equivalent in any discipline.
OR
completion of the Postgraduate Qualifying Program (PPN001)
Note: Meeting minimum prerequisites does not guarantee an offer of a place. Entry into all La Trobe courses is based on competitive selection and there may be limited places available.
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About La Trobe University
Find out how our strategic vision, values and mission keep us connected with our local communities.
2025–2030 Strategic Plan
La Trobe’s 2025-2030 Strategic Plan is the University’s ambitious strategy for the next five years. It is focused on fields in which the University is a recognised leader and that will deliver growth – health, science and education – underpinned by innovation and an AI-first mindset across both curriculum and research, and with an overarching skills through equity lens.
Our vision
We are a university where inclusion and innovation produce real-world impact – through world-class research, strong industry partnerships, expanding access to higher education, and relentless focus on student success and career outcomes.
Our Strategic Foundations
At La Trobe, our people, values and partners are at the heart of everything we do, laying the foundation of our success as a university.
Our people
People are the heart of our strategy. Our success is driven by the leadership, accountability, capabilities, and commitment of our people.
Our values
Our values underline everything we do. We are proud to be a university founded on and driven by social justice.
Our partners
Our partners are essential for realising our ambitions to produce research and career-ready graduates with real-world impact.
“La Trobe University is proud of our past and the impact we have achieved. We are invested in our staff, our partners, and most of all our students. We are determined to shape a future that is better for Australia, our region, and the world.”
Our strategy in under two minutes
Our plans for the future
Accelerating our growth
Growth is crucial for the success of our university. It will enable us to invest in world-class research capabilities, teaching innovations and facilities, enhanced student support, and further upgrades to infrastructure.
Maximising our impact
Impact is more than just a promise, it’s our purpose. We’re globally recognised for advancing the UN Sustainable Development Goals, and we’re committed to achieving even more impact through research, education, and community engagement.
Shaping our future
We’re driven by purpose and a belief in a better tomorrow. Through research, education programs and engagement with our partners, we aim to shape a better future where inclusion and innovation produce real-world impact.
Governance
The La Trobe University Council is the governing authority of the University and is chaired by the Chancellor. The Vice-Chancellor is appointed by Council to be the chief executive officer of the University.
Discover our unique history, including our motto and coat of arms.
We have been one of Australia’s pioneering universities for more than 50 years. In 1967, 552 students enrolled at La Trobe University, the third university to open in Victoria, which has grown to accommodate more than 36,000 students, with over 7,000 international students from 110 countries.
We now have a network of campuses, with over 28,000 students at our Melbourne Campus and over 7,500 at our campuses in Albury-Wodonga, Bendigo, Mildura, Melbourne City (Collins Street), Shepparton and Sydney.
Past Chancellors and Vice-Chancellors
Our commitment to teaching excellence has been overseen by some truly inspirational people – leaders who have shaped the University, and the lives of the thousands of students who have attended here over the past five decades.
Past Chancellors
Sir Archibald Glenn OBE: 1967 – 1972
Hon Mr Justice Reginald Smithers: 1972-1980
Hon Mr Justice Richard McGarvie: 1980-1992
Emeritus Professor Nancy F Millis AC: 1992-2006
Dr Sylvia Walton AO: 2006 – 2011
Professor Adrienne E Clarke AC: 2011-2017
Professor Richard Larkins AC: 2017-2018
Hon Mr John M Brumby AO: 2019 – present
Past Vice-Chancellors
Professor David Myers: 1965 – 1976
Professor John Scott AO: 1977 – 1989
Professor Michael Osborne: 1990 – 2006
Professor Brian Stoddart: 2006
Professor Paul Johnson: 2007 – 2011
Professor John Dewar: 2011 – 2023
La Trobe University Coat of Arms
Our Armorial Bearings combine significant symbols that encapsulate its history, goals and pride in its Victorian genesis.
Australia is represented by the Australian wedge-tailed eagle, one of the world’s largest eagles. Victoria is represented by the sprigs of heath, the state’s floral emblem. The eagle is represented in La Trobe’s brandmark.
The open book refers to the University’s commitment to learning. The scallop shells are part of the La Trobe family bearings, and have been included to acknowledge the La Trobe name.
University motto
The French motto “Qui cherche trouve” (Whoever seeks shall find) is a modern version of the La Trobe family motto.
Over 200,000 students have graduated from La Trobe University thus far, and have gone on to achieve great things in all walks of life, giving us our well-deserved reputation.
Campus locations
Find a campus near you – or the place you want to be
Get the benefits of a big university, close to home. At La Trobe, we believe everyone should get to study at a globally-renowned university, wherever you choose to live. The solution? We’ve got campuses across Victoria and New South Wales so you can match your study with your lifestyle.
A$43 800 per 120 credit points. Note: 120 credit points represents full-time study for one year.
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Scholarships: Available for this course
The International estimated fees are indicative only. The tuition fees you pay will depend on the subjects you choose to study, with each subject having its own cost. In some cases, your course fees may be higher than the indicated fees because of the subjects you choose.
International scholarships
Studying in Australia is a major investment, and La Trobe supports international students with a wide range of scholarships and financial aid. These awards recognise academic excellence, reward ambition and help make study more accessible across undergraduate, postgraduate and research programs.
The scholarships listed below represent opportunities that may be available to international students, with eligibility depending on factors such as academic performance, course, discipline, country of citizenship and campus. Some are tailored to specific campuses or fields of study.
Each scholarship has its own criteria and application process, so we encourage you to review the details carefully to see what support may apply to you.
Scholarship details
Eligibility
Amount
Alumni Advantage Available for La Trobe graduates applying for a full-fee postgraduate coursework program.
50% tuition fee reduction for the entirety of the course
La Trobe Vice Chancellor Scholarship Awarded to international students who have excelled not only in their studies but also in extracurricular activities.
High-achieving international students who go beyond academics to create real change.
A reduction of either 50% or 100% off the total course tuition fee.
International students applying for a one or two-semester study abroad program at La Trobe University.
25% tuition fee reduction for the entirety of the program.
External scholarships
Australia Awards Scholarships
Australia Awards Scholarships are prestigious awards administered by the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. The scheme offers scholarship opportunities to international students from developing countries, particularly from the Indo-Pacific region, to undertake full-time undergraduate or postgraduate study in Australia.
Are you an Indonesian student thinking of undertaking postgraduate study at La Trobe University? LPDP is a scholarship scheme funded by the Indonesian Government for citizens who want to complete postgraduate study at an Indonesian or overseas university.
What are the admission requirements for my course?
Admission requirements specific to your course can be found under the ‘entry requirements & pathways’ section of each course page.
Do business analytics courses require pre-existing qualifications in math or coding?
Business analytics doesn’t require broad knowledge of mathematics and coding. However, these courses are reliant on an understanding of statistics and the ability to understand databases and programming fundamentals.
Are business analytics and data science similar courses?
Study in business analytics and data science has a reliance on statistics, are enabled by similar tools and software, but their industry application areas and objectives differ.
Studying in Australia: Your Guide to Universities, Programs, and Student Visas
Australia is a popular destination for international students, offering quality education, diverse campuses, and vibrant cities. From affordable universities to top-ranked institutions, Australia has something for everyone. Here’s everything you need to know about studying in Australia.
Top Universities in Australia
Australia’s Top Universities
Australia is home to some world-renowned universities, consistently ranking among the best globally. Australian National University (ANU), University of Melbourne, University of Sydney, and University of Queensland are a few examples of prestigious institutions that attract international students.
QLD Universities
Queensland offers a range of universities, including Griffith University, James Cook University in Brisbane, and Central Queensland University. These institutions provide various programs suited to different interests and career paths.
Universities in Perth, Australia
Perth is a vibrant city with reputable universities such as Edith Cowan University (ECU), Murdoch University, and University of Western Australia. Known for their high quality of education, these universities offer excellent options for both local and international students.
University in Melbourne List
Melbourne is a hub for quality education with universities like Deakin University, University of Melbourne, and RMIT University, each offering diverse programs and a dynamic student life.
University in Brisbane, Australia
Brisbane hosts renowned institutions like Griffith University and James Cook University, providing a range of study options with excellent facilities and support for international students.
Universities in Sydney, Australia
Sydney is home to leading universities, including the University of Sydney, University of New South Wales (UNSW), and Macquarie University.
Affordable and Cheapest Universities in Australia
Cheapest University in Australia
For those on a budget, Australia offers affordable education options without compromising quality. Central Queensland University and Edith Cowan University are known for providing affordable programs.
Low-Cost Universities in Australia
Universities like Western Sydney University and Victoria University offer lower tuition fees, making education accessible for international students.
Affordable Universities in Australia
Many Australian universities provide scholarships and affordable courses. University of Sunshine Coast and Charles Darwin University are among those that offer value without high costs.
Popular Programs and Courses in Australia
Masters Degrees and Programs in Australia
Australia offers a wide range of master’s programs in fields like IT, business, engineering, and more. Universities such as University of Queensland and Monash University offer specialized programs designed to boost your career prospects.
MBA in Australia Cost
The cost of pursuing an MBA in Australia varies by institution, with top programs available at University of Melbourne and Australian Graduate School of Management (AGSM). While MBA programs can be expensive, many universities offer financial aid and scholarships.
Best IT University in Australia
Australia’s top IT programs can be found at institutions like University of Technology Sydney (UTS) and RMIT University, providing cutting-edge knowledge and skills for a career in tech.
MBBS Cost in Australia
Medical education in Australia is rigorous and offers high-quality training. The cost of an MBBS in Australia is typically high but provides excellent career opportunities globally.
Scholarships and Financial Aid
Scholarships in Australia for Indian Students
Many Australian universities offer scholarships specifically for Indian students. Scholarships can help reduce tuition costs, making education more accessible for international students.
Student Visas and Living Costs
Student Visas Australia
To study in Australia, you’ll need a student visa. The visa application process is straightforward, but it’s essential to meet the requirements for acceptance. Ensure you apply early to secure your visa on time.
Living Cost in Australia for International Students
Living expenses vary depending on the city. Major cities like Sydney and Melbourne are more expensive, while places like Brisbane and Perth offer more affordable options. On average, international students should budget for accommodation, food, and other personal expenses.
Universities by Location and Specialty
Griffith University (Queensland)
Known for its research and industry connections, Griffith offers a variety of programs in fields like health, business, and environmental studies.
Deakin University (Melbourne)
Deakin is popular among international students for its flexible learning options and strong support services.
James Cook University (Brisbane)
Located in Queensland, James Cook is recognized for its programs in tropical health, marine science, and environmental studies.
Edith Cowan University (ECU) (Perth)
ECU provides a range of programs and is known for its focus on teaching quality and graduate outcomes.
Murdoch University (Perth)
Murdoch offers a student-centered approach and is known for courses in law, psychology, and veterinary science.
List of Australian one of the Best Universities
For a complete list of universities, Australia has a diverse range of institutions across various cities. Here are some popular ones:
Central Queensland University: Known for affordability and strong industry ties.
University of Western Australia: Highly regarded for research and academic excellence.
CQ University: Offers practical, career-focused courses in multiple disciplines
